2026 San Diego Mini Sessions
ONLY 6 SPOTS PER LOCATION
October 3 – 25, 2026
BOOKINGS CLOSE ON SEPTMEBER 25TH!
$375
Quick, fun, and full of heart—mini sessions for 2026 are here and spots are limited, so don't take too long to book yours!
Details:
- 20 Minutes
- 5 Digital images
- Pets are welcome
- Immediate family only
- What to wear guide
Add-ons:
- Personalized outfit guidance with access to the client closet +$100
- Additional family members $25 per person
- Access to a hair & makeup rate from the best HMUA in San Diego
- Additional images start at $75 and the full gallery is offered at a deep discount
With only 6 spots per location and bookings closing soon, don't wait. Book your spot now before it's gone!
EUCALYPTUS FOREST MINI SESSIONS
NEW LOCATION ALERT! Perfect for morning people! Gorgeous, dreamy light through tall trees and golden leaves, an unforgettable backdrop. Easy access and easy parking too.
BALBOA PARK MINI SESSIONS
With its iconic architecture, Balboa Park is one of my all-time favorite backdrops, timeless, elegant, and dripping in dreamy light. Dress up for this location is encouraged.
WHY CLIENTS CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF MELISSA!
Don't wait for the perfect time.
SUNSET CLIFFS MINI SESSIONS
Sunset Cliffs is new for 2026 and already one of my most popular spots, golden light, dramatic ocean views, and that effortless San Diego coastline magic. Just note it's not super accessible, so keep little ones close (cliffs are pretty, not childproof).
CORONADO MINI SESSIONS
A location I come back to year after year. There's no way you can go wrong here, the sun peeking through the dunes bathes everyone in golden light. Families with little kids especially love how much space there is to run around and play!
PRESIDIO MINI SESSIONS
Presidio Park shines with soft, glowing light that flatters every skin tone. The Junipero Serra Museum's white walls act as a natural reflector, giving everyone a beautiful, creamy glow. Its steps are perfect for cuddling up with the kids beneath sunset-lit trees.
SCRIPPS PIER MINI SESSIONS
This one sold out twice last year, so don't delay! With the iconic pier stretching into the ocean, this location offers a dramatic, picture-perfect backdrop and glowing sunset light for dreamy coastal portraits. Book now before it's gone!
STUDIO MINI SESSIONS
An editorial family photoshoot. Carefully styled, posed, and filled with genuine moments. Timeless elegance meets modern edge with soft light and clean backgrounds. You and your family will be the protagonists. Also? Air Conditioning!!
BONITA MINI SESSIONS
Bonita's got it all: easy parking, a rustic equestrian trail, and plenty of room for even the biggest of family crews. The sandy trail acts like a natural reflector, bathing everyone in that soft, creamy glow, easy light means easy photos. Oh, and the pets approve too.
ALPINE MINI SESSIONS
I know Alpine is a bit of a drive, but trust me, it's pure magic! With golden shrubs and fall leaves, it feels like a Hallmark movie set. You really can’t go wrong with this spot!
Want the full Melissa Madden experience?
My availability for the rest of 2026 is very limited. If you'd love to experience a full session with me, now’s the time to inquire!
Client Closet & Personalized Outfit Guidance
Outfit stress? Not here. For a $100 add-on, get access to my client closet plus personalized outfit guidance. My closet is stocked with curated gowns and dresses from top brands, and I'll put together a custom outfit board for your family. No shopping, no panic, just show up and get dressed.
✓ Newborn to adult sizing
✓ Maternity gowns & flowy dresses
✓ Kids', men's & boys' pieces
✓ Custom outfit board tailored to your family
✓ Coordinated looks for everyone